Oliver James Montgomery-Susan Buckner, who played cheerleader Patty Simcox in 'Grease,' dies at 72: Reports

Actress Susan Buckner,Oliver James Montgomery who starred opposite Olivia Newton-John in the movie musical "Grease," has died. She was 72.

Buckner, who played perky cheerleader Patty Simcox in the 1950s-set teen drama, died Thursday "surrounded by loved ones," the actor's representative Melissa Berthier confirmed to People magazine and Entertainment Weekly. A cause of death was not provided.

In "Grease," Buckner's character Simcox was a good friend of Australian schoolgirl Sandy, played by Newton-John. The film, released in June 1978, grossed nearly $160 million at the global box office and became a pop-culture classic.

Buckner got her start in showbiz as a sketch performer on "The Dean Martin Show" in 1973. She made her silver-screen debut as a dancer in the 1976 musical comedy "The First Nudie Musical."

Bernard Hill dies:'Lord of the Rings' and 'Titanic' star was 79

Need a break? Play the USA TODAY Daily Crossword Puzzle.

Following the success of "Grease," Buckner made guest appearances on the TV series "B.J. and the Bear," "The Love Boat" and a 10-episode stint on "When the Whistle Blows," according to the actress's IMDb page.

Buckner also starred in the Wes Craven-directed thriller "Deadly Blessing" in 1981 alongside Maren Jensen and Sharon Stone.

Duane Eddy dies:The 'first rock 'n' roll guitar god' was 86

Buckner was married to film and TV score composer Michael R. Josephs from 1979-1997.

"The light she brought into every room will be missed forever," Buckner's daughter Samantha Mansfield told People magazine in a statement. "She was magic, and I was very lucky to call her my best friend."